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Obviously, the Cole pick isn't a big surprise. The Pirates don't have a track record of taking HS hitters in the first round, and other than McCutchen and Walker they haven't been particularly successful when they have.

Its who they really took and its kind of a no-brainer. All the elite arms were off the board and Starling is the BPA, and not only that but he's a local kid with a tremendously high ceiling. Could be a huge bust, but could be a long-time All-Star.

2. RHP Dillon Howard, Searcy HS, Searcy AR

Split between him and Daniel Norris, two first-round talents that slid, but I like Howard's fluid mechanics a bit more over Norris' rock back and forth and inconsistent delivery.

3. SS Connor Barron, Sumrall HS, Sumrall, MS

I like prep guys in the first three rounds because if you don't sign em you get a compensatory pick. Barron seems like a bit of a lottery ticket - good tools but is still fairly raw. But he shows good power potential if you can sign him away from his college commit.

4. RHP Noe Ramirez, U of Cal-State Fullerton

I love thin, wiry guys with a lower slot delivery who can whip the ball and Noe does just this. Also has great command and could be a fast riser as a reliever.

5. RHP Will Roberts, U of Virginia

Outstanding command without a lot of velocity. Surprised the Twins didn't grab him up.

6. LHP Cody Kukuk, Free State HS (Lawrence, KS)

Local kid with a big frame but very raw. Needs to refine mechanics and develop command.

7. RHP Kyle Winkler, Texas Christian University

Stepped up when Purke went down to become the ace for the Horned Frogs. Impressive collegiate numbers although his ceiling is probably not that high.

8. OF Xavier Macklin, North Carolina A&T University

Among the nation's leaders in home runs, great raw power.

9. 1B Jackson Whitley, North Augusta HS, North Augusta, SC

Good frame, quick bat, easy sign for a prep kid.

10. OF Jhiomar Veras, Western Oklahoma State College

Raw power, pretty good speed. Toolsy and raw, but has some college experience.